Industrial
Heritage

Northern Ireland's industrial heritage
is perhaps the most underestimated factor in the shaping of the province's
history, political as well as social. Anyone who has read Leon Uris' "Trinity",
which is well researched and historically accurate, will have gained
a valuable insight into the strange days and ways which determined the
lives of so many, and whose mark, for better or worse, endures.

The province's contribution to the Industrial Revolution, which began
over 250 years ago, was tremendous. Although Ireland was on the periphery
of industrial development, by 1900 the North was one of Europe's greatest
manufacturing regions. It led the world in linen production and shipbuilding,
(the ill-fated Titanic was built at Belfast) and fostered a huge variety
of small-scale industries in rural areas.

Visitors to Northern Ireland will observe a wealth of industrial heritage
sites scattered throughout the landscape. Some, such as old linen mills,
corn mills and railways are well preserved and open to the public. Others,
such as bridges, reservoirs and the famous Antrim Coast Road built in
1834, are a vital part of Northern Ireland's everyday life.

Factory visits

The following factories and workshops offer guided tours of their works,
many of which are free of charge. Some businesses are run solely by the
craftsman and the tour is given as an extra to normal business. In all
cases it is advisable to check tour availability before setting out.